2002 BMW M3 vs. 2006 Mercedes-Benz R
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz R is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 BMW M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 BMW M3 would be higher. At 6,208 cc (8 cylinders), 2006 Mercedes-Benz R is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mercedes-Benz R (504 HP @ 6800 RPM) has 166 more horse power than 2002 BMW M3. (338 HP @ 7400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz R should accelerate faster than 2002 BMW M3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz R weights approximately 780 kg more than 2002 BMW M3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2006 Mercedes-Benz R is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2002 BMW M3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz R will offer significantly more control. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 2006 Mercedes-Benz R (630 Nm) has 275 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 BMW M3. (355 Nm). This means 2006 Mercedes-Benz R will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 BMW M3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 BMW M3 | 2006 Mercedes-Benz R | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | M3 | R |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3246 cc | 6208 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 338 HP | 504 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7400 RPM | 6800 RPM |
| Torque | 355 Nm | 630 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 6 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1595 kg | 2375 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 5160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1930 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1640 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 3220 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 67 L | 80 L |
